Description

The Royal Mint has issued this lovely Gold Proof Two Pound coin, to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Captain James Cook Voyage of Discovery.

Captain Cook set sail to Tahiti in the summer of 1768. His task was identifying a ‘southern continent’, which was the subject of rumours, and also observing the Transit of Venus.

Through his pioneering voyages of discovery, Captain Cook expanded our understanding of the world beyond known horizons. He made history, making scientific discoveries , charting new un-reached waters and opening up new trade routes all without the use of google maps or a ‘Satnav’!

To mark his best known voyage of discovery, a series of three two pound coins have been created by designer and sculptor Gary Breeze.

When the coins are placed together, the design can be seen of as a whole, this coin is the first of three, to be released, how exciting is that!

The design of the first coin focuses on the stern of Captain Cook’s famous ship, HM Bark Endeavour, leaving in the summer of 1768. The ensign and the flag of the United Kingdom are visible while Plymouth town nestles between the dates and Cook’s name. The distinctive signature of Captain Cook is included and the numbers ‘250’ mark the anniversary.